The Royal Danish Navy (Kongelige Danske Marine) will join the French Navy and Royal Netherlands Navy as part of the French-initiated, European-led mission in the Strait of Hormuz (EMASOH). The EMASOH takes place in the western part of the Gulf of Oman, the eastern part of the Arabian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz.
The Danish contributions will include a staff officer contribution from the beginning of 2020 and – subject to parliamentary approval in 2020 – a naval contribution beginning in the fall of 2020.
“As the fifth largest seafaring nation in the world, Denmark has a special interest in – and responsibility to – ensure maritime security and freedom of navigation – also in the Strait of Hormuz. The Danish government will therefore continue its active efforts to reduce tensions in the region. Now also with a concrete contribution in the form of staff officers and a frigate. Our contribution will complement other efforts in the region, including the US-led maritime security effort IMSC. The European-led mission is also expected to be supplemented by diplomatic efforts aimed at enhancing regional dialogue on maritime security.”
Minister of Foreign Affairs Jeppe Kofod
“It is important that Denmark as a significant sea-faring nation with a capable navy takes responsibility, and stands up for the principles we believe in. I am proud of the fact that allies look in our direction, when looking for partners for a task like this one. It is a testimony to the respect shown to our capable soldiers and our robust capacities. “
Minister of Defence Trine Bramsen
There is another, similar coalition lead by the United States: the International Maritime Security Construct (IMSC). The IMSC was established to deter malign activity, promote maritime security and stability, and ensure freedom of navigation and free flow of commerce in international waters throughout the Arabian Gulf, Strait of Hormuz, the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and the Gulf of Oman. Participants are the United States, Albania, Australia, Bahrain, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom.
